Alternative Propulsion System for a Supersonic Aerial Target

The Aerial Targets Program Management Office (PMX-208), manages full-scale and sub-scale aerial target systems to support fleet training and weapons system test and evaluation. PMX-208 requires a suitable form, fit, and function (FFF) alternative propulsion system capable of powering GQM-163A high-speed, supersonic and sea-skimming aerial target.
The legacy solid-propellant ducted rocket motor industrial base is constrained by sole-source manufacturing nodes, aging chemical formulations with potential ingredient obsolescence, long fabrication lead times, and high unit costs. To address these issues, PMX-208 is pursuing the development of a prototype propulsion system. The Government intends to award one or more Other Transaction Agreements for prototyping. The resulting propulsion system prototype will require qualification to enable PAE Munitions to provide as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) to prime air vehicle integrators.